Starting pitcher Shane Bieber has decided to stay with the Toronto Blue Jays for the upcoming season by exercising his $16 million player option for 2026. The 30-year-old pitcher, who joined the Blue Jays from the Cleveland Guardians at the trade deadline last summer, had a record of 4-2 with a 3.57 ERA during his time with Toronto.
Bieber’s decision to return solidifies the team’s starting rotation, which is expected to feature Kevin Gausman, Trey Yesavage, Jose Berrios, and possibly Eric Lauer. The statuses of Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt, both free agents, remain uncertain.
During the postseason, Bieber had a 2-1 record with a 3.86 ERA. He notably secured a win against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 4 of the World Series but also gave up a crucial home run to Will Smith in Game 7.
Since his debut in 2018, Bieber has amassed a 66-34 record and a 3.24 ERA. He was the recipient of the American League Cy Young Award in the shortened 2020 season after an outstanding performance with the Guardians.
Bieber made a successful return from Tommy John surgery in 2024 with a strong debut for Toronto in August 2026. His choice to remain with the Blue Jays for the upcoming season may come as a surprise, as he could have pursued a more lucrative long-term deal elsewhere. By staying with Toronto, he aims to further enhance his market value on a team expected to be competitive next year.
The Blue Jays had a successful 2025 season, winning 94 games and claiming the AL East Division title. They advanced through the AL Division Series and the AL Championship Series, defeating the New York Yankees and the Seattle Mariners, respectively, before falling to the Dodgers in the World Series.
The team is gearing up for the 2026 season, with spring training set to begin in mid-February. The Blue Jays will kick off their season on March 26 against the Athletics at home.